In an effort to help prevent the increased spread of disease, the month of May has been recognized as Tick-borne Disease Awareness Month.

The growing number and spread of tick-borne diseases pose an increased risk in the U.S. A recent report published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, found the number of reported tick-borne diseases more than doubled in the past 13 years. And from 2004 through 2016, seven new germs spread through the bite of an infected tick were discovered or recognized in the U.S. as being able to infect people, according to MDH.

“Maryland is vulnerable, but we are working very hard to educate the public and reduce the threat,” said Dr. Howard Haft, deputy secretary, Public Health Services. “Through awareness, our goal is to reduce human exposure to ticks, prevent tick bites, and to prevent Marylanders from acquiring tick-borne illnesses.”

According to MDH, Lyme disease is the most commonly reported tick-borne disease in Maryland. In 2016, nearly 1,900 cases of Lyme disease were reported in the state.

Symptoms of Lyme disease include a rash (which might look like a bull’s eye), fever, headache, joint pain and fatigue. If left untreated, the disease may spread to the joints and nervous system.

Persons should contact their healthcare providers if any of these symptoms develop after a known tick bite or after spending time in a tick habitat. Most cases can be cured with antibiotics.

According to MDH, the best way to avoid tick-borne diseases is to avoid ticks and their habitat. Ticks prefer humid environments and can be found outdoors in the leaf litter, weeds, tall grasses, shrubs and woods. To prevent tick exposure and tick bites:

• Use insect repellents such as DEET, picaridin or IR3535.

• Perform a “tick check” on oneself, children and pets after being outside in tick habitat.

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